Why Advanced Technology Lenses are Worth Considering Before Having Cataract Surgery

Do you have cataracts? The only way to remove a cataract and restore your clear vision is to undergo surgery. Before your procedure, though, there is a crucial decision for you to make.

You will have a new lens implanted during cataract surgery (an intraocular lens), but not all lenses are the same. Advanced technology lenses can decrease your need for glasses after surgery.

Keep reading to learn why advanced technology IOLs are worth considering before having cataract surgery.

What Is an Advanced Technology IOL?

When you undergo cataract surgery, you will have the once clear natural lens that has turned cloudy removed and replaced with a clear IOL.

There are both traditional and advanced technology IOLs available. A traditional lens is monofocal, meaning it can only correct your vision at one distance.

You may be able to see clearly from a distance but require glasses or contacts to view up-close objects. Your insurance plan generally covers this type of lens.

Advanced technology lenses can correct both near and distance vision and correct astigmatism. As a result, patients can significantly reduce their reliance on glasses and contacts or even eliminate their need for them after surgery. An advanced technology lens is typically not covered by most insurance plans.

What Types of Advanced Technology IOLs Are Available?

The variety of options available allows us to select the best type of lens to suit your lifestyle and vision needs. We will discuss your eye health and goals during your consultation to determine the ideal fit for you.

Multifocal Lens

The first type of advanced technology lens is called a multifocal lens. It provides clear vision at multiple distances. It works by utilizing built-in rings that allow your brain to focus on the appropriate distance.

You can see nearby, intermediate, and distant objects. You can also switch seamlessly between the different distances. This is an excellent option for those looking to reduce their dependence on reading glasses.

Accommodative Lens

An accommodative lens also allows you to see both near and far. These lenses work by slightly changing shape or position as your natural lens once did. By imitating this capability, this advanced technology lens can make your vision sharp from any distance.

Toric Lens

If you have astigmatism, a toric lens may be right for you. With this kind of IOL, light is refocused correctly onto your retina to counteract your astigmatism.

With this advanced technology lens, your vision will be clearer, reducing any blurriness due to astigmatism. New toric lenses allow you to see near, far, and in between.

The Benefits of Choosing an Advanced Technology IOL

Many individuals with cataracts elect to receive an advanced technology lens to reduce their dependence on glasses or bifocals after cataract surgery. In addition to removing the clouded lens so their vision is no longer obscured, the procedure allows many patients to see near, far, and intermediate objects with clarity.

It can be a great relief to no longer require glasses or contacts every day. When you do not need anything extra to see, daily tasks like reading and taking in a beautiful view along your walk in the park become much more enjoyable.

Whether you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, advanced technology IOLs can reduce the need for glasses and contact lenses.